S&K Small Engine Repair/Maintenance

07/07/2025

Happy 4th of July from S&K...

Levels of petty never seen before

05/22/2025

Its that time of year again. If you need your mowers or trimmers repaired or need maintenance service for them we have appointments on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

09/25/2024

02/06/2024

Mulching leaves is better for your yard, your back, and your budget

02/06/2024

February is the time for lawn care planning. LINKS → https://www.howtowithdoc.com/february-lawn-care/Doc goes over the February to March items to think about...

02/06/2024

Find out if the gasoline you're wondering about is too old to use as-is. If so, here is a guide to help you learn how to dispose of old gas safely.

02/06/2024

Basic Winterization Checklist for Your Lawn Mower

Clean under mower deck, sharpen mower blade

Change Engine Oil

Inspect and change filters if needed
Inspect and/or replace spark plugs

Stabilize fuel and fuel system

Adding a stabilizer is important because fuel can go bad if it is left sitting too long. In fact, in as little as 30 days the fuel sitting in your mower or gas can begin to deteriorate. Over time this can leave behind gums, varnish, and other solids that interfere with flow in your system. Fuel stabilizers stop this buildup and also help reduce water separation in fuels that contain ethanol. Fuel stabilizers keep gas from going bad and gumming up your fuel system. They also prevent water build up from phase separation.

When winterizing your mower, it’s a good idea to look for grease points. These are usually found around the wheels. Not all mowers have them but if you do this is a good time to grease them.

02/06/2024

Maintaining a healthy and beautiful yard during winter requires some specific care and attention to protect your grass, plants, and overall landscaping from the cold, harsh conditions. Here are some tips for winter lawn care:

Keep Leaves and Debris Clear: Regularly remove fallen leaves and debris from your yard. Leaves can smother grass and create a breeding ground for diseases.

Mowing: Continue mowing your lawn as long as the grass is actively growing. However, raise the mower blade to leave grass slightly taller (about 2-3 inches) to provide more insulation.

Aerate the Soil: Aeration helps improve the circulation of air, nutrients, and water to the grass roots. It's best done in the fall but can be beneficial in early winter in milder climates.

Fertilize: Apply a winter fertilizer with a high potassium content to strengthen grass roots and improve winter hardiness. Avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they can promote excessive growth.

Watering: Reduce watering as the temperatures drop, but don't completely neglect it. Water deeply and less frequently to prevent your lawn from drying out.

Snow Removal: When snow accumulates, use a snow blower or shovel to remove it from walkways, driveways, and patios. Piles of snow on your lawn can lead to compaction and snow mold.

Prevent Compaction: Avoid walking on frozen lawns, as it can compact the soil and damage the grass. Use walkways or paths instead.

Apply Mulch: Insulate the roots of your plants and trees with a layer of mulch. This helps to retain soil moisture and protect against extreme temperature fluctuations.

Protect Plants: Cover delicate or sensitive plants with burlap or other protective materials to shield them from freezing temperatures and winter winds.

Pruning: Prune trees and shrubs during the dormant season, as it's easier to see their structure without leaves. Remove dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded growth.

Prepare for Spring: Winter is a good time to plan and prepare for your spring gardening. Clean and sharpen your gardening tools, order seeds, and plan your landscaping projects.

Pest Control: Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases, as some may be active during the winter months. Address any issues promptly.

Check Irrigation Systems: If you have an irrigation system, ensure it's properly winterized to prevent freezing and damage to pipes and sprinklers.

Consider Winter Interest Plants: Planting winter interest plants like evergreens and shrubs with colorful berries can add visual appeal to your yard during the winter months.

Snow and Ice Management: Be prepared to deal with snow and ice. Stock up on ice melt or sand for pathways and driveways, and have the necessary tools for snow removal.

Remember that the specific care required may vary depending on your climate and the type of grass and plants in your yard.

02/06/2024

Rejuvenating your lawn after a long summer is a key element to your fall lawn care routine--check out these fall lawn care tips to ensure your lawn is ready for winter!

08/09/2023

Get your exercise in while mowing the grass...

07/30/2023